It seems pretty simple, put toothpaste on your toothbrush, brush for two minutes then rinse.
Well, Sydney dentist, Dr Luke Cronin reveals there are five key things everyone needs to correct.
According to the dentist he wants us to avoid rinsing immediately after brushing:
"Don’t rinse immediately after brushing as this will wash away the concentrated fluoride in the remaining toothpaste.”
If you leave the paste on the surface for a while after brushing it “will continue to protect your teeth.
Another not the Doc wants us to know is when to brush after meals.
"Avoid brushing for at least 30 minutes after eating and drinking as most types of foods and drinks can weaken your enamel and brushing too soon will cause further damage.”
This is particularly important after acidic foods and drinks. Be sure to drink plenty of water after eating and drinking, and if you are in a rush to work or have a set routine, brush your teeth before eating breakfast.
We know we’re meant to brush our teeth for two minutes, but do we actually brush them for that long?
Dr Cronin says the average person spends 45 seconds brushing their teeth.
"Try walking around the house or watching television while you brush your teeth, you’re more likely to spend the recommended two minutes!"
He goes on to discuss the angle of how you should be brushing.
"If you have an electric toothbrush, you will only need to hold the brush at a 45-degree angle and move the brush along your top and bottom teeth.”
He suggests using an electric toothbrush, but if you have the normal manual toothbrush don’t brush too hard.
"Brushing harder doesn't mean you will clean your teeth more effectively, in fact, it can even damage your oral health.”
As long as you reach all areas of your mouth in a gentle manner with the correct technique you’ll be able to clean your teeth without damage.”
Some parting words from the doctor:
“Again, invest in a quality brush, ideally an electric brush which you can more easily glide across your teeth for the full two minutes instead of brushing back and forth in a harsh manner."
Were you already following these rules or do you need to alter some of your habits before bed tonight?